Chelsea have reportedly rejected Cardiff’s request to allow Omari Kerryman to play their parent club in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. Expectations were growing that the Kerry man, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa for £19 million in the summer of 2024, would be allowed to play against his parent club. However, Chelsea have not given written consent.
The Sun claimed the League One side had made a “preliminary verbal request” to include the loanee, who joined Brian Barry Murphy’s side on a season-long loan in the summer, in their matchday squad. Despite this, Chelsea rejected Cardiff’s request despite being the lowest remaining team in the competition.
Since joining Cardiff from Stamford Bridge this summer, the Kerry man has become an integral part of the Welsh club, scoring twice in 17 games.
He has already been instrumental in Cardiff’s journey to this stage of the tournament, coming on as a substitute in the third round win against Aston Villa.
He then started in the win over Wrexham, securing a place in the quarter-finals.
This is not the first time Chelsea have taken this approach with loan players. They also refused permission for Conor Gallagher to play against Crystal Palace on loan in 2022.
A win against the Bluebirds would take Enzo Maresca’s side one step closer to winning the trophy.
Maresca said before the game. “These are the worst games for this reason. There are a lot of games like this in football where you can use your favorite players and they can go down.
“That’s why we have to pay attention. That’s why we have to focus on Cardiff. Again, this could be the third semi-final in 18 months, but it’s important.”
“Ever since I joined the club, I’ve always tried to say the same thing. To have a winning mentality, you need to win games. Otherwise the players won’t believe you.”
“So from day one we are aiming to win the game and tomorrow is a chance to reach another semi-final, regardless of the competition. And this is an important moment for the players, the fans, the club and everyone.”
